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Strategic Plan
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At St. Ann Classical Academy, our Strategic Plan (2025-2030) serves as a roadmap for strengthening our Catholic identity, advancing academic excellence, and ensuring the long-term vitality of our school. Developed in collaboration, the plan outlines clear goals and priorities that guide our mission-driven growth. Rooted in faith and tradition, it reflects our commitment to forming students in wisdom, virtue, and joy while preparing St. Ann for a vibrant future.
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Strategic Plan OVerview
History
In September of 1966, the school opened its doors for students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 under the direction of Sister Gabriel Blasi, M.P.F., first principal of St. Ann School. The Religious Teachers Filippini faithfully served the school in administration and teaching until 2021. As the school developed, additional grades were added to include Pre Kindergarten - Grade 8. In the Fall of 2019, the classical education model was adopted by the school under the direction of the Raritan Oratory of St. Philip Neri. St. Ann School transitioned to St. Ann Classical Academy to more fully align with the school’s distinction as the only classical school in the Diocese of Metuchen. The Fall of 2026 will mark 60 years of providing Catholic education in Raritan, NJ.Executive Summary
St. Ann Classical Academy is dedicated to providing an authentically Catholic, rigorously classical, and simply joyful education that shapes students academically, spiritually, and socially. Over the next five years, St. Ann Classical Academy will continue to grow as a center of academic excellence and spiritual formation, rooted in the classical tradition and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
This strategic plan sets forth our goals for the next five years in the areas of Catholic identity, curriculum development, faculty excellence, enrollment growth, marketing/community engagement, and facility improvements. Our approach is built on a commitment to our core values and the belief that classical education equips students to think critically, communicate effectively, and pursue truth with confidence.
This strategic plan serves as a roadmap for our continued growth and excellence at St. Ann Classical Academy. Through collaborative efforts and a steadfast commitment to our mission, we aspire to shape the minds and hearts of our students, guiding them toward a bright and purposeful future.Vision Statement
St. Ann Classical Academy envisions a community where students are formed in virtue, wisdom, and faith, fully equipped to engage the modern world with an unwavering commitment to truth, beauty, and goodness. We aspire to be a beacon of classical education, nurturing a love for learning and a deep sense of Catholic identity in each student. St. Ann Classical Academy will continue to grow and develop as the only classical school in the Diocese of Metuchen.Mission Statement
Build a foundation for our students in the knowledge of the goodness, beauty, and truth of God’s creation, both visible and invisible; to cultivate an understanding of the true nature of the human person intellectually, physically, socially and spiritually; and to nurture them as Christian disciples leading them into a personal relationship with Jesus, the Source of all knowledge and wisdom.Philosophy of Catholic Liberal Arts Education
The resurgence of the classical liberal arts approach in contemporary Catholic education flows out of a re-examination as to what Catholic education actually should look like. This model seeks to reclaim an approach that puts Christ at the center of the entire educational process, forms our children/youth in virtue, actively engages students in the quest for Truth, and forms students in an understanding of what it means to be human.
Catholic liberal education is built on three pillars:1) Sacred Scripture and Tradition;2) faithfulness to the teaching of the Magisterium; and,3) the practice of the Sacramental life.
The objectives of this approach to education are:1) provide an environment for students to broaden/deepen their relationship with God;2) foster an academic culture aimed at pursuit of the truth and,3) promote growth in virtue. It seeks to inculcate virtue over values in the lives of children. Values are human made and as such changeable; virtue on the other hand is part of the natural law written by God on the human heart.
Characteristics of the Catholic liberal approach would include the integration of subjects, knowledge and faith; to restore the meaning and purpose of the learning process; to (re)awaken wonder in children; to nurture the moral imagination; to develop the habit of reasoned thinking. Through the use of the seminar style learning, students are invited into constant discussion which yields active learning. Above all, the Catholic liberal arts approach seeks to develop intellectual freedom.
The typical spiral curriculum is replaced by the classical Trivium of grammar, logic, and rhetoric. In the grammar stage (Grades K-4) the focus is on the knowledge of things. The absorption of facts and use of memorization are important in this initial stage. The second stage, logic (Grades 5-8) is a time for students to start to analyze, question and evaluate what they know and learn. Finally, the rhetoric stage (Grades 9-12) is where the application of knowledge and the acquisition of wisdom is primary.
At the heart of the classical model is the desire to bring each child into a lived relationship with Jesus, the Master Teacher. This permeates the entire curriculum. Our goal is to labor to lead these young souls entrusted to us to heaven. Leading them into an encounter with the One who named himself the Way, the Truth, and the Life is the ultimate goal of the Catholic liberal arts approach, which is the Church's proven tradition of education.Accreditation
St. Ann Classical Academy has been accredited through Cognia since 2012. Cognia is an international accreditation and school improvement agency which establishes high standards of academic rigor, leadership, and educational best practices. St. Ann Classical Academy is also a member of the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA), a charter member of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), and a premier member of the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education (ICLE).
St. Ann Classical Academy is the classical school of the Diocese of Metuchen.Core Values
The core values of St. Ann Classical Academy are rooted in its mission to offer a Catholic education that integrates faith with the classical liberal arts tradition. Central to these values are:1. Faith: St. Ann Classical Academy fosters a strong Catholic identity, aiming to develop students both spiritually and morally, guiding them toward a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.2. Truth, Beauty, and Goodness: St. Ann's education focuses on discovering God's creation, emphasizing intellectual, social, and spiritual growth3. Integrated Curriculum: Subjects are taught in a way that reveals their interconnection, especially in relation to God.4. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Students are encouraged to think deeply, ask questions, and seek wisdom, rather than simply memorizing facts for tests. This classical model aims to cultivate lifelong learners.These values guide the school’s approach to education, helping students to grow in both knowledge and virtue.Portrait of a St. Ann Classical Academy Graduate
The Portrait of a St. Ann Student reflects the core values and mission of our academy, shaping graduates who are articulate and confident in both faith and academics. They demonstrate integrity and moral character, respecting themselves as creations of God. As critical thinkers and problem solvers, they approach challenges with curiosity and discernment. Equipped to serve, they embrace their role as defenders of the faith, ready to engage the world with wisdom and conviction.Strategic Goals (2025-2030)
1. Catholic Identity
As a Catholic school, St. Ann Classical Academy is dedicated to the spiritual development of our students and the cultivation of a deep, vibrant faith life. Strengthening the partnership between parents, students, and the school in fostering faith formation remains a key priority for the coming years. We recognize that parents are the primary educators of their children in the faith, and we are committed to supporting them in this sacred role.Objectives
Objective #1: Strengthening Parent-School Partnership in Faith FormationSt. Ann Classical Academy will prioritize strengthening the spiritual partnership with parents by offering more opportunities for their faith development, encouraging them to participate fully in the life of the Church.Objective #2: Supporting Parents as Primary Educators in the FaithRecognizing that parents are the first teachers of their children in faith, we will continue to assist them in this role through increased communication and shared faith experiences.Objective #3: Enhancing the Liturgical Life of the School CommunityThe celebration of the Eucharist and the presence of regular prayer are at the heart of our Catholic identity. We will continue to enrich the liturgical life of the school, ensuring that students, staff, and families can participate actively.Objective #4: Expanding Opportunities for Student Faith FormationSt. Ann Classical Academy is committed to providing its students with an education that forms them in both faith and virtue. To deepen students’ relationship with Christ, we will offer additional opportunities for prayer, reflection, and service.
The Catholic identity of St. Ann Classical Academy is at the core of who we are and what we do. Strengthening the partnership with parents, deepening the liturgical life of the school, and offering rich spiritual experiences will ensure that we continue to form students who are rooted in the love of Christ and prepared to live lives of faith and virtue. By working closely with families and building a strong, faith-filled community, we will ensure that our students are spiritually nourished and well-equipped to live their Catholic faith in all aspects of life.2. Curriculum Development
At St. Ann Classical Academy, our curriculum reflects the depth and rigor of the classical education model, aimed at cultivating wisdom, virtue, and a love for learning in our students. Over the next five years, we are committed to refining and expanding our curriculum to ensure that it remains aligned with our classical mission while addressing the needs of our diverse student body.Objectives
Objective #1: Integrated Classical CurriculumWe will continue to develop and enhance an integrated curriculum that connects subjects such as literature, history, religion, math, science, art, and music in a meaningful and cohesive way. This integrated approach allows students to make connections across disciplines, fostering deeper understanding and critical thinking.Objective #2: Enhancing Mathematics and Science in a Classical Framework (Quadrivium)
Mathematics will be taught in a way that emphasizes not only technical skills but also the beauty and order inherent in mathematical concepts, linking it to classical traditions of logic and reasoning.Objective #3: Cultivating Virtue Through Literature and HistoryLiterature and history will continue to be central to our curriculum, with a focus on cultivating virtue and moral reasoning through the study of great works of Western civilization.Objective #4: Evaluation and Continuous ImprovementRegular evaluation of our curriculum will be conducted to ensure it meets both academic standards and the spiritual formation goals of our Catholic classical mission.The development of a robust, integrated curriculum that aligns with the classical education model is a key priority for St. Ann Classical Academy. Through intentional curriculum design, professional development for faculty, and a focus on the virtues and intellectual growth of our students, we aim to provide a curriculum that prepares students to think deeply, live virtuously, and engage the world with wisdom.3. Faculty Excellence
St. Ann Classical Academy is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a faculty that is dedicated to both academic rigor and the spiritual growth of our students. By investing in our teachers through professional development, collaborative opportunities, and support in classical education methods, we ensure a dynamic and enriching learning environment.Objectives
Objective #1: Ongoing Professional Development in Classical PedagogyProviding high-quality, ongoing professional development is essential to maintaining a culture of continuous growth and excellence in teaching. By partnering with organizations like the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education (ICLE), we aim to enhance our faculty’s expertise in classical education methods.Objective #2: Enhancing Instructional Quality through Integrated CurriculumA hallmark of classical education is the integration of subjects, allowing students to see connections between different areas of study. Our faculty will focus on refining their approach to teaching through an integrated curriculum, which enriches students’ learning experiences.Objective #3: Supporting Faculty Well-being and Professional GrowthThe well-being and professional satisfaction of our teachers are crucial to maintaining a positive and effective learning environment. We are committed to providing the support and resources that teachers need to thrive.Objective #4: Building a Strong Community of Catholic EducatorsOur teachers are not only educators but also mentors and role models in the Catholic faith. Strengthening their formation in faith ensures that they can effectively guide students in their spiritual journey.
By fostering an environment of faculty excellence, St. Ann Classical Academy ensures that our teachers are equipped to provide a rigorous, integrated, and faith-filled education for every student. Our commitment to professional growth, integrated teaching methods, and spiritual development allows us to cultivate a team of educators who are passionate about their subjects and dedicated to guiding students in their intellectual and spiritual formation. Through these efforts, we continue to build a school community that upholds the highest standards of classical and Catholic education.4. Enrollment Growth
To sustain and expand our mission of providing a classical Catholic education, St. Ann Classical Academy is focused on strategic efforts to increase student enrollment. By strengthening community engagement, improving marketing initiatives, and building partnerships with local parishes, we aim to attract families who value the unique offerings of our school. These efforts will help ensure that St. Ann Classical Academy remains a thriving community where students can grow in faith, knowledge, and virtue.Objectives
Objective #1: Strengthening Community EngagementA key element of our enrollment strategy is deepening our connections with the local community. By fostering relationships with families, parish communities, and local organizations, we will create greater awareness of our school’s mission and value.Objective #2: Enhancing Marketing and CommunicationsEffective communication is essential for showcasing the distinctive elements of St. Ann Classical Academy. By refining our marketing efforts, we will better convey the benefits of a classical education and attract families seeking an environment that nurtures both academic and spiritual growth.Objective #3: Building Partnerships with Local ParishesOur connection to the Catholic community is central to our mission and offers a natural opportunity to reach families seeking a faith-centered education for their children. Strengthening relationships with local parishes will help us reach these families and grow our enrollment.Objective #4: Retention of Current FamiliesRetaining current families is as important as attracting new ones. By ensuring that students and families feel valued and connected, we can maintain a stable and growing enrollment.Maintaining and increasing student enrollment is crucial to the sustainability and growth of St. Ann Classical Academy. Through these focused strategies, St. Ann Classical Academy aims to grow and sustain its enrollment, ensuring that we continue to offer a vibrant classical and Catholic education to more families. By engaging with the community, strengthening relationships with local parishes, and effectively communicating our mission, we can attract families who share our values and vision. This growth will allow us to enrich the learning environment, enhance opportunities for students, and build a strong, faith-filled community for years to come.5. Marketing and Community Engagement
St. Ann Classical Academy’s commitment to providing a classical, faith-filled education is a unique strength that differentiates us within the Diocese of Metuchen and the broader community. To effectively communicate our mission, values, and educational offerings, we are focusing on strategic marketing and community engagement initiatives. These efforts will not only attract new families but also build deeper connections with the local community, ensuring that St. Ann Classical Academy remains a vibrant and growing institution.Objectives
Objective #1: Enhancing Digital Marketing PresenceA strong digital presence is essential to reaching prospective families and showcasing the unique benefits of a classical Catholic education. By leveraging social media, our website, and digital advertising, we aim to increase visibility and engagement.Objective #2: Strengthening Community PresenceBuilding relationships within the local community and increasing visibility is key to showcasing St. Ann Classical Academy as a welcoming and enriching educational environment.Objective #3: Developing Strategic Partnerships with Local ParishesOur relationship with the Catholic community is central to our identity. Strengthening partnerships with parishes in the Diocese of Metuchen allows us to reach families who value faith-based education and are looking for an academically rigorous school within the framework of a Catholic, Classical, Liberal Arts pedagogy.Objective #4: Engaging Current Families as AmbassadorsWord of mouth from current families is one of the most effective forms of marketing. By empowering our families to share their positive experiences, we can extend our reach within the community.Through strategic marketing and community engagement efforts, St. Ann Classical Academy aims to build a strong, visible presence within the community and attract families who share our vision for a classical Catholic education. By enhancing our digital presence, strengthening relationships with local parishes, and empowering current families to serve as ambassadors, we will ensure that St. Ann Classical Academy continues to thrive as a beacon of faith, learning, and virtue. These efforts will support sustained enrollment growth and foster a sense of belonging and pride among all members of our school community.6. Facility Improvements
To foster a beautiful, functional, and inspiring environment for our students, staff, and community, St. Ann Classical Academy is committed to making facility enhancements that reflect both our Catholic values and the classical ideals of beauty and order. Our goal is to create a space that nurtures student academic, spiritual, and social growth while fostering an atmosphere of reverence, tranquility, and joy.Objectives
Objective #1: Reflecting Beauty in Our SpacesAt the heart of our classical education model is the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty. To embody these ideals, we will enhance the physical beauty of our campus, ensuring that it becomes a place that inspires reflection and joy.Objective #2: Flexible Outdoor Play SpacesOutdoor spaces are critical for the physical and social development of our students. We aim to create flexible play areas that support both structured and unstructured play, encouraging creativity, imagination, and exploration.Objective #3: Updated Shared SpacesUpgrading shared spaces like the cafeteria and restrooms is essential for creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for students, staff, and visitors. These areas are central to daily life at the school and should reflect both beauty and practicality.Objective #4: School SignageA permanent, well-designed school sign will be a key element in promoting the identity of St. Ann Classical Academy and signaling our presence in the community. This sign will be both a functional marker and a reflection of our values and mission.The facility improvements at St. Ann Classical Academy are designed to create an environment that reflects the beauty, order, and harmony central to our Catholic and classical educational model. By enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of our campus, we aim to provide a space that supports the holistic growth and well-being of our students, staff, and families, while ensuring that our school remains a welcoming and inspiring place to learn and grow.7. Operational Vitality
Operational vitality is the foundation that supports the long-term success and sustainability of St. Ann Classical Academy. By ensuring strong financial health, strategic enrollment management, effective use of resources, and a well-maintained campus, we create a stable environment that allows our mission to flourish.Objectives
Objective #1: Financial SustainabilityEnsuring financial stability is critical for maintaining operations and keeping a St. Ann Classical Academy education accessible to families. We will manage resources responsibly, increase our fundraising capacity, and offer targeted financial aid to support families in need.Objective #2: Strategic Enrollment GrowthSustaining and growing our enrollment is essential for maintaining the financial health and vibrancy of our school community. We will focus on community engagement, targeted marketing, and retention strategies.8. Governance and Administration
Alignment with NCEA National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools
St. Ann Classical Academy’s strategic plan is closely aligned with the NCEA National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools. These standards provide a framework for ensuring that Catholic schools offer a high-quality, faith-based education that meets the spiritual, academic, and developmental needs of students. Our strategic priorities directly reflect these standards, guiding our commitment to excellence in Catholic education and our dedication to nurturing the intellectual and spiritual growth of our students.
1. Mission and Catholic Identity
The NCEA Standards emphasize the importance of a strong Catholic identity that permeates all aspects of school life. At St. Ann Classical Academy, we prioritize our mission of providing a classical, faith-filled education that is authentically Catholic. This is reflected in our strategic plan through initiatives like:● Enhancing the partnership with parents in their role as the primary educators of their children’s faith, offering spiritual growth opportunities and inviting families to participate in weekly Mass, monthly Adoration, and other liturgical celebrations.● Deepening faculty formation in Catholic teachings to ensure that our educators model the values and virtues of the Catholic faith, fostering a school environment rooted in Gospel values.● Strengthening connections with local parishes to reinforce the spiritual life of the school community and promote the value of Catholic education within the broader community.These efforts align with the NCEA’s focus on promoting a vibrant Catholic culture and ensuring that our students grow in their understanding of the faith.
2. Governance and Leadership
The strategic plan aligns with NCEA’s standards for effective governance and leadership by focusing on:● Leadership Development for Faculty: Through partnerships with the Institute for Classical Education (ICLE) and other professional development opportunities, we aim to equip our faculty with the skills and knowledge necessary to deliver a high-quality classical education and assume leadership roles in the school.● Engaging the School Community: Our plan includes initiatives like the Parent Ambassador Program and community outreach, fostering a collaborative relationship between families, faculty, and leadership. This ensures that all stakeholders are actively involved in supporting the mission and goals of the school.By emphasizing strong governance and leadership, St. Ann Classical Academy aims to build a sustainable future where the school’s mission and vision are effectively carried out.
3. Academic Excellence
The NCEA standards highlight the need for rigorous and challenging academic programs. Our strategic plan reflects this through a commitment to faculty excellence and curriculum development, including:● Integrated Classical Curriculum: We focus on enhancing the classical education model by providing professional development for teachers, encouraging integrated learning, and fostering a deep appreciation for history, literature, math, science, and the arts. This aligns with the NCEA’s emphasis on delivering a rich, rigorous curriculum that engages students in critical thinking and meaningful inquiry.● Supporting Student Achievement: Our plan includes initiatives to support students’ intellectual growth, including project-based learning that aligns with the classical model and integrated units that draw connections across disciplines.● Focus on Professional Growth: Continuous professional development for teachers ensures that instructional practices remain aligned with best practices in classical education, supporting both student and teacher growth.These academic initiatives support the NCEA’s focus on providing challenging academic programs that foster the development of each student’s God-given talents.
4. Operational Vitality
The strategic plan also addresses the NCEA’s emphasis on operational vitality, ensuring that the school is moving towards financial stability and meets the needs of its community. This includes:● Enrollment Growth: Our strategic focus on growing enrollment through enhanced marketing, community engagement, and partnerships with parishes helps to ensure long-term sustainability and a vibrant student body.● Facility Improvements: Reflecting the classical ideals of beauty and order in our campus enhancements, such as upgrading shared spaces, creating flexible outdoor play areas, and installing a permanent school sign, supports a welcoming and functional environment. This aligns with the NCEA’s standard of maintaining a safe, attractive, and well-equipped school environment.● Strengthening Financial Stability: Initiatives like targeted outreach to prospective families and building community partnerships help support tuition revenue and enhance financial stability. By focusing on retaining current families and attracting new ones, we ensure that St. Ann Classical Academy remains financially viable and mission-driven.
These actions support the NCEA benchmarks for building a sustainable financial and operational foundation, ensuring that we can continue to serve our students and community for years to come.Conclusion
The strategic priorities of St. Ann Classical Academy are deeply rooted in the NCEA National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools, guiding our efforts to build a school community that is academically excellent, spiritually rich, and operationally strong. By aligning our goals with these national standards, we ensure that we are fulfilling our mission to provide a classical, Catholic education that prepares students for a life of faith, virtue, and service.